Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Health Care Committee

HB 2556

Brief Description: Directing the department of social and health services to request a waiver to create a consumer-directed medicaid coverage plan.

Sponsors: Representatives Hinkle, Condotta, Talcott, Serben, Rodne and Shabro.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • The Department of Social and Health Services will submit a waiver request to the federal government to permit a consumer-driven Medicaid coverage plan.

Hearing Date: 2/2/06

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

The federal government allows states to seek authority under the Social Security Act to pursue innovative service delivery and financing concepts in the Medicaid program. Other states have successfully requested waivers for Medicaid regulations, allowing them to pursue consumer-driven health care service delivery and financing programs.

Summary of Bill:

The Department of Social and Health Services will submit a waiver request to the federal government to permit a consumer-driven Medicaid coverage plan.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.